Today is the Start of a plethora of College and University football competitions across the Country.
Third level football is now seen as a key stepping stone in a young player's development. Any aspiring player who wants to play inter county will use that elite level to test themselves among the best and allow them to reach the pace and standard of inter county.
Sigerson Cup football is a super competition, a high quality brand of exciting football, very physical and our players aren’t involved.
Throughout the whole competition We have possibly the fewest Player's involved with Sigerson team's. Jim McEnaney is in the highly talented DCU squad but down their pecking order.
James Califf, Shane O'Hanlon, Kevin Keelan and Peter Kirwan make up a large Louth contingent with NUI Maynooth but that’s where our player interest stops.
With such low number's does it highlight our lack of elite players, or the player’s lack of ambition not to put themselves out there and get into the Squads.
More importantly are we being left behind? Because of it?
It seems that way.....Parallel’s can be drawn to a poor tradition and lack of interest in third level competitions and our lack of Minor & U21 inter county success.
Highlighting the fact, that we are not producing elite players or even a tradition of standard’s required to play at the top, therefore as a result we are not winning or even featuring at those crucial inter-county development level’s.
My case in point is Dundalk IT, who are now competing in the second tier Trench cup. After years of neglect by the institute itself and the County board. A prefect opportunity to produce and develop our player’s totally wasted over the years.
Compare that to Cork, who’s top players have and want to come through CIT, UCC system. Playing at that high standard improved those players allowing them to consistently contest in and win; minor, U21 and senior provincial and all-Ireland title’s.
Hopefully now Oisin McConville, the new DKIT manager with his profile can stir up some interest, making our players aspire to play at that level.
We need all our players playing at the highest possible level to improve, as a county we would be better off.
Dundalk IT face St Pats Drumcondra at 2pm today.
Louth players involved Cathal Bellew, Sean McCann, Jason Clarke, Brian Fitzpatrick, Bernard Osbourne, Timmy Smith Paul Crewe,Derek Maguire and Andy McDonnell but he is away
Result: DKIT 4-10 St Pats Drum 1-21
Another Defeat a close one but a defeat non the less but twas to be expected I suppose!??
Don't know where my Sigerson Predictions went UL ran jordanstown close but UCC and UCD too strong
Sligo IT,DIT and Queens
and DCU on the 7th to prevail
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Monday, 30 January 2012
Rossies Report
First of all, a few things to tidy up over the weekend
A good win in Darver on saturday night is sure to raise spirits, building up to this weeks NFL opener against Westmeath!!
Positive's: High score tally, encouraging the number of scorers ,the form of clarkie and fight back we showed in the second half.
Negatives: injuries, which are piling up at this stage and Selection headache's
A good run out, illustration further that the cobweb's are off and the Skill levels are noticibly rising.
A number of players have put their hand up for selection for next weekend.
Darren Clarke tops the Chart with 'unbelievable spinners' from the album 'saturday night fever'
Darren Clarke (2-4)
Michael Roger's (1-0)
Cathal Bellew (0-3)
David Reid (0-2)
Jim McEnaney (0-1)
Conor Rafferty (0-1)
Adrian Reid (0-1)
Brian Donnelly (0-1)
A good win in Darver on saturday night is sure to raise spirits, building up to this weeks NFL opener against Westmeath!!
Positive's: High score tally, encouraging the number of scorers ,the form of clarkie and fight back we showed in the second half.
Negatives: injuries, which are piling up at this stage and Selection headache's
A good run out, illustration further that the cobweb's are off and the Skill levels are noticibly rising.
A number of players have put their hand up for selection for next weekend.
Scorers Chart
Darren Clarke tops the Chart with 'unbelievable spinners' from the album 'saturday night fever'
Darren Clarke (2-4)
Michael Roger's (1-0)
Cathal Bellew (0-3)
David Reid (0-2)
Jim McEnaney (0-1)
Conor Rafferty (0-1)
Adrian Reid (0-1)
Brian Donnelly (0-1)
Scorers Chart Explained
Scorers Chart
Basically the SC Is a list compiled of all the scorers, like a pop chart usually from the most recent game played.
The score of the game or most significant score, is usually song of the week and I describe the score itself within the song title.
and
then the single which is usally from an Album allows me to use the Album title to give further background on the player or the game.
Hope that helps!!
Saturday, 28 January 2012
4 W's Preview
WHO: Roscommon
WHAT: Challenge
WHERE: Darver
WHEN: 5pm
A tasty little Challenge on a saturday evening in Darver. Although Roscommon will be understrength minus their St Brigids contignent, A good test non the less.
It will give us a chance to get used to a western style of football with a view to playing Galway in the league.
A physical side with new manager Des Newton with his own pedigree from Kilmacud Crokes, following on from great work from Fergus O'Donnell.
Interesting to see how we get on and what the team is following on from last weeks two wins and two squads.
looking forward to it.
Things to look out for: Tanned duo Mick Fanning and Brian White, Big Bad Donie Shine one of the best place kickers, players in the country! Cake. rumours of the larger than life Goalie back in the Roscommon panel!
WHAT: Challenge
WHERE: Darver
WHEN: 5pm
A tasty little Challenge on a saturday evening in Darver. Although Roscommon will be understrength minus their St Brigids contignent, A good test non the less.
It will give us a chance to get used to a western style of football with a view to playing Galway in the league.
A physical side with new manager Des Newton with his own pedigree from Kilmacud Crokes, following on from great work from Fergus O'Donnell.
Interesting to see how we get on and what the team is following on from last weeks two wins and two squads.
looking forward to it.
Things to look out for: Tanned duo Mick Fanning and Brian White, Big Bad Donie Shine one of the best place kickers, players in the country! Cake. rumours of the larger than life Goalie back in the Roscommon panel!
Friday, 27 January 2012
Dundalk Colleges Comeback as it happened!
A really tough opening assignment for the holders, a trip to Clonguish co Longford to face a St Mels team.
Last years from can't really be taken into it with St Pats Navan being dumped out of it yesterday.
Star man Ciaran Byrne is out but in Kieran Lenehan at the back James Stewart in the middle, and Cian Doyle and Conall McKeever up front they should have enough qualityto prevail.
There will be updates throughout.......Throw in 1:30.
They are down 6-0 three quarters ways through the first half playing against a strong wind.....the half has just ended 7 points to no score.
The loss of Ciaran Byrne and James Stewart might have them under pressure....but away from home bad conditions..they really need to hit the ground running early in the second half if they are to proceed and show some character.
And they have got the start they needed....!!
Ben mcLoughlin with the goal and the mercurial Cian Doyle with two points 1 from play cutting the deficit down to 2 already in the half!
The champions are showing their quality to lead midway throught the half for the first time in the game! 1-5 to 7!!!
5 mins to go and it's a draw game!
And they pull it off to win the game 1-7 to 9 points.....!!
Missing key players, away from home, terrible conditions and down by seven points
they have gained and shown some character.....could 2012 be their year again
watch this space............
Scorers Chart
Joint Top of the Charts but Ben McLoughlin with 'Early goal' from the album 'Comeback kids' gets my vote.
(1) Ben Mc Loughlin 1-01,
(1) Cian Doyle 0-4 (2f),
(3) Conal Mc Keever 0-1
(3) Robert Quigley 0-1
Last years from can't really be taken into it with St Pats Navan being dumped out of it yesterday.
Star man Ciaran Byrne is out but in Kieran Lenehan at the back James Stewart in the middle, and Cian Doyle and Conall McKeever up front they should have enough qualityto prevail.
There will be updates throughout.......Throw in 1:30.
1.S Murphy (Gaels)
2.A Smyth (Brides) 3.K lenehan (Togher) 4.C mcMenamin (Mals)
5.J Arrowsmith (Gers) 6.D Smith (Joe's) 7.T Murphy (Gaels)
19.C Noonan (Clans) 9.C Giggins (Stabannon)
10.R Carr (Blues)11.C Doyle (O'Connell's) 12.M Newell (Clans)
13.B mcLoughlin (S O'mahony's) 14.R Quigley (O'Connell's) 15.C McKeever (Clans)
They are down 6-0 three quarters ways through the first half playing against a strong wind.....the half has just ended 7 points to no score.
The loss of Ciaran Byrne and James Stewart might have them under pressure....but away from home bad conditions..they really need to hit the ground running early in the second half if they are to proceed and show some character.
And they have got the start they needed....!!
Ben mcLoughlin with the goal and the mercurial Cian Doyle with two points 1 from play cutting the deficit down to 2 already in the half!
The champions are showing their quality to lead midway throught the half for the first time in the game! 1-5 to 7!!!
5 mins to go and it's a draw game!
And they pull it off to win the game 1-7 to 9 points.....!!
Missing key players, away from home, terrible conditions and down by seven points
they have gained and shown some character.....could 2012 be their year again
watch this space............
Scorers Chart
Joint Top of the Charts but Ben McLoughlin with 'Early goal' from the album 'Comeback kids' gets my vote.
(1) Ben Mc Loughlin 1-01,
(1) Cian Doyle 0-4 (2f),
(3) Conal Mc Keever 0-1
(3) Robert Quigley 0-1
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Phil Lynott to Fitzer
'Guess who just back today'...............Who?
'them wild-eyed boys that had been away!'......Mick Fanning and Brian White??
'Yep Haven't changed, haven't much to say'......really? not a tan between them?
'But man, I still think them cats are crazy'...... they sure are for coming home!!!
They were asking if you were around
How you was, where you could be found......Dail most days, Senate the other's and Darver by night!!
How you was, where you could be found......Dail most days, Senate the other's and Darver by night!!
Told them you were living downtown......Sure I always lived doon the toon so I did!
Driving all the old men crazy........ah don't mind the County Board!!
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
What a Difference a year makes! we now have a cultured Centre half and worldly midfielder back in our panel! The boys are back in town
On a serious note, the return of the two lads from their travels is a Massive boost for the Squad ahead of the League. Ccounteracting the bad news of Keenan's injury over the weekend and Johnny Murtagh's transfer embargo (more on that tomorrow!!).
Although it may take them some time to get back up to speed on the field, they are two popular lads within the panel they should boost morale off the field.
Along with that, they give the panel an added boost to competition for places. White a free taker supreme who played his best stuff for Louth at midfield will have to battle off a number of players since he left to partner PK. His own club man Brian Donnelly, Ronan Carroll and the youthful duo of Michael Rogers and James Califf. but Fitzer does have the option of throwing him in the forwards also.
Fanning doesn't have such a battle as he can slot in anywhere in the back line. Usually depending on the direct opponent he picks up. Adding size to the back line which will definitely come in handy in division 2.
The real bonus is actually having some of our talented footballers back as option's, compared to not having them at all......isn't it Phil?
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
REACTION:Drogheda-Midlouth-Independent-Argus All-Star team!
The vote's are very much in
tallied and counted
Team Announced
Team Announced
BUT
I demand a recount!!!
1. Mark Savage
2.Darren O'Hanlon 3.Shane Brennan 4.Eamonn Kenny
5.Cian McEvoy 6.Owen Zamboglou 7.Alan Doyle
8.PK 9.Liam Shevlin
10.Jim McEnaney 11.Eamon Mullen 12. Jason Clarke
13Danny O'Connor 14.Eoin O'Connor 15.Paul Callan
Lets get one thing straight, I am not going to run down any player who were lucky enough to get selected on the team.
My Gripe is with the process of Selection.
The voting system in place allows for a skewed team, seen in the evenly balanced side, spread across 10 teams!
Pats end up with 5 and rightly so, Dreadnots come Second with 2 players but the Fechin's and O'Raghaillaigh's must feel aggrieved to only have one each! Therefore we are left with a biased All-Star team, not a fair reflection on the 2011 championship season.
Proof of voting system's failings, is that one third of the All Star team is from players who were their clubs only representative! Making it easy for their supporter's to mass vote that solitary player nominated into the side whether they deserved it or not.
I know its only a bit if fun and not to be taken too seriously. These things are all about the debate because there are no right answers!! If anything this particular All-Star team shows the loyalty of their Supporters and their profound texting ability!
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Drogheda-MIdlouth-Argus independent All Stars
My method,
I'm picking the team as a team, As opposed to 3 fullbacks on the same line! A cop out in my opinion pick the best player per position is my view.
My championship team of the year consisted of 2 players not involved with a championship final Reido and Howell were outstanding performers for their respective club's.
As per usual my Gripe with this great concept is, places will depend on whoever bothers to vote not on Merit but I don't think I'm too far wrong in the spread of players picked from the winners in each grade and losing finalist's.
5 from St Pats, 3 each from O'Raghaillaigh's and Fechin's,2 from the Blue's.
Maybe Louth should change their colours to Green and White for next Season!!
Scrolldown and have a look and debate if you like!
I'm picking the team as a team, As opposed to 3 fullbacks on the same line! A cop out in my opinion pick the best player per position is my view.
My championship team of the year consisted of 2 players not involved with a championship final Reido and Howell were outstanding performers for their respective club's.
As per usual my Gripe with this great concept is, places will depend on whoever bothers to vote not on Merit but I don't think I'm too far wrong in the spread of players picked from the winners in each grade and losing finalist's.
5 from St Pats, 3 each from O'Raghaillaigh's and Fechin's,2 from the Blue's.
Maybe Louth should change their colours to Green and White for next Season!!
Scrolldown and have a look and debate if you like!
HEY NOW you're an ALL-Star (Forwards)
Amazing to see, that only 3 forwards out of all that are nominated, were involved with louth last year!
10. Rory Moore- worked tirelessly for the drogheda men on the wing, his industry and creative flash's swung alot of games for them.
11.John kermode-has come along way in recent years and showed it in 2011, Blue's scorer in chief on their run to Joe ward final.
12. David Reid - Scoring machine at this level, Merits his place on the team for that alone despite Mattock's failings in 2011.
12. David Reid - Scoring machine at this level, Merits his place on the team for that alone despite Mattock's failings in 2011.
13 Danny O'Connor, 14 Eoin O'Connor Twin Towers up front for the Pats were the highlight of the Championship worked well together and a thorn in every side they faced
last but not least 15 Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft - The Fechin's main man and top scorer in the land deserves the plaudits after years of pursuit.
HEY NOW you're an ALL-Star (Midfield)
8 Paddy keenan Stands alone......
HEY NOW you're an ALL-Star (Defenders)
2.Darren O'Hanlon - had a really strong end to the season bouncing back from a disappointing Louth U21 campaign best right full back in Louth last year.
3. David Collier - Man of the hour his form has been rewarded in a Louth senior call up outstanding display's with the Fechin's made him louth top club full back for 2011(excuse the tongue twister!)
4.Graham Murray - Left full and crucial to the the O'raghailligh's finally capturing intermediate title
3. David Collier - Man of the hour his form has been rewarded in a Louth senior call up outstanding display's with the Fechin's made him louth top club full back for 2011(excuse the tongue twister!)
4.Graham Murray - Left full and crucial to the the O'raghailligh's finally capturing intermediate title
5.Stephen Moonan - drove up the flanks for the bLue's and one of their top performer's all year.
6 Brian Howell -a sort of unknown and late developer but top performer in 2011, physical presence and tigerish marker were his trademark
7 Ray Finnegan -All action Ray set the tone for the Pats this season a true leader for them in capturing Joe ward.
7 Ray Finnegan -All action Ray set the tone for the Pats this season a true leader for them in capturing Joe ward.
HEY NOW you're an ALL-Star (GK)
Joe Flanagan
Great kickout, behind a tight O'rats backline, He was Solid an gave his defence confidence and organisation.
WeecountyNewsLMFM All-Stars Team
They jumped the gun on me and the team was announced yesterday.
I missed my opportunity to vote and more importantly have a look at the nominee's before the team was Announced.
Which is a Shame because now I can't complain about the selection's because I don't know who was up!!!
The 2011 Wee County News/LMFM Championship All-Stars team
I missed my opportunity to vote and more importantly have a look at the nominee's before the team was Announced.
Which is a Shame because now I can't complain about the selection's because I don't know who was up!!!
The 2011 Wee County News/LMFM Championship All-Stars team
Joseph Flanagan (O Raghallaighs)
David Collier (St Fechins)
Dessie Finnegan (St Patricks)
James Moonan (O Raghallaighs)
Stephen Moonan (Newtown Blues)
Ray Finnegan (St Patricks)
Brian Howell (Nh Mairtin) Fitzer take note This man has to be called up! for his Physicality alone!!
Paddy Keenan (St Patricks)
James Califf (Dreadnots)
Ruairi Moore (O Raghallaighs)
David Reid (Mattock Rangers)
Derek Crilly (Dundalk Gaels)
Ronan Holcroft (St Fechins)
Eoin O'Connor (St Patricks)
Barry Flanagan (O Raghallaighs)
Panellists:
Mark Savage (St Fechins)
Graham Murray (O Raghallaighs) Solid performer and worth a serious look at senior level, FItzer!!!
Jamie Carr (Newtown Blues)
Ciaran Brassil (O Raghallaighs)
Craig McEnteggart (O Raghallaighs)
JP Rooney (Nh Mairtin)
I take it the Team is selected purely from the number of vote's from the website and LMFM just put it out there.......
They play the Senior team sometime in february which is a good Idea it gives Club players distinction and something to aspire to.
Furthermore makes this the official 'Team of the Championship' as they get a chance to prove themselves and certification that they were one of the players of the championship.
Best of luck and well done to all involved
I take it the Team is selected purely from the number of vote's from the website and LMFM just put it out there.......
They play the Senior team sometime in february which is a good Idea it gives Club players distinction and something to aspire to.
Furthermore makes this the official 'Team of the Championship' as they get a chance to prove themselves and certification that they were one of the players of the championship.
Best of luck and well done to all involved
Monday, 23 January 2012
L&P Twitter @louthProud
Louthandproud has just got twitter'd as they say in Ardee
so follow @louthProud
for all the latest Posts and all the going's on in the blog!!
and if have suggestions for the Blog let me know too
thanks L&P
Scorer's Chart
Darren Clarke tops the chart this week
How he crammed a whole live album in 60 minute's is beyond me
(1) Darren Clarke 2-7 2-4 play (3F)
(2) Jim McEnaney 2points 1 play
(3) Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft 1 play
How he crammed a whole live album in 60 minute's is beyond me
(1) Darren Clarke 2-7 2-4 play (3F)
(2) Jim McEnaney 2points 1 play
(3) Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft 1 play
Crossmaglen at noon postview
Oh Twitter
what would a louth GAA geek like me do with you?
You gave me the chance to lie in bed an hour extra, check the team with my porridge, saved me some expensive petrol in getting down there and most importantly some brownie points with the woman!
ROOKIE REPORT
My first thought's when I seen the team was, how tasty my porridge was ha sorry, how tasty the new faces in new places looked
1.D Crosby
2.J Agnew 3.D Collier 4.J Carr
5.S Fitzer 6.D Byrne 7.L Shevlin
8.PK 9.M Rogers
10.C Bellew 11.M Brennan 12.J Clarke
13.D Clarke 14.D Maguire 15.R Holcroft
Crosby, Bellew, Holcroft and Collier all retained their place in the team after the meath game which would boost their individual confidence no end.
Michael Roger's a huge big man lurking around the panel last season and out of under 21 this year with a point to prove could be a dark horse for the future and a cert for the louth junior's this season and Jackie Agnew who played the second half the night before is a speed merchant and one of the O'Connell's best players in recent season's could have the pace to make an impact at this level.
POSTVIEW
Early morning Challenge's are a difficult animal in the GAA world, first of all you have to get up a little earlier and eat food and fuel that you never eat at that time of day...you have a whimiscal approach to the game, you don't warm up a properly as you should and did I not mention you're usually not fully awake.....!!
Another thing I might add to morning challenges, is that defender's aren't as mean, half forwards and midfielder don't track their men as tightly as they usually do, the game is therefore than bit freer it's usually a forwards game.
And one man to exploit this to the hilt is Darren Clarke a sharp shooter at all time's and it didn't take him long to take the advantage a goal Straightaway!
Then, Before I could get dressed......PK went off injured with a hamstring injury. Disaster!! but hopefully a enough time to be right for Westmeath but highly doubtful. On a positive note Jim Mcenaney was introduced, could be his year to break into the senior panel and show his promise he notched a point.
Chinky scored another point but it was all Clarkie after this, 1-3 of Louth's half time tally of 1-5 was his and he combined for all bar one of louth's second half scores. Not only this but he responded to Cross everytime and lead the attack expertly. Kicking superb points and free's with ease.
In doing so Clarkie has made up Fitzers mind. Who, now has no excuses not to play him unlike other year's and cementing his place in the full forward line for the NFL.
Final score Louth 2-10 Crossmaglen 1-9
In doing so Clarkie has made up Fitzers mind. Who, now has no excuses not to play him unlike other year's and cementing his place in the full forward line for the NFL.
Final score Louth 2-10 Crossmaglen 1-9
Best man on view: @A1SHEV for the updates
Best louth man on view: @clarkie2015
Anyone wondering where Andy mcDonnell is from the weekend's two sides he hasn't left the panel, just the country for a few weeks.
Rookie Report The Sat night show Pt1
From Saturday's game against Down
I mentioned rookie's, Barry O'Hare, Conor Rafferty and Eoin O'Connor but forgot to mention one more.
David McComish
The Dundalk Gaels wingback got his chance on Saturday night and gave a competent display at uncustom for him, left half back position.....he attacked and defended equally well.
He has come on a great deal for the Gaels over the years, attacking the right flank is a trademark of theirs. Although He tends to overcarry the ball he never got in trouble once but it his delivery for this level he is was that bit slow becasue of it, but that is his game. His speed of thought will improve with every game and he is certainly worthy of his place on the panel for now.
I mentioned rookie's, Barry O'Hare, Conor Rafferty and Eoin O'Connor but forgot to mention one more.
David McComish
The Dundalk Gaels wingback got his chance on Saturday night and gave a competent display at uncustom for him, left half back position.....he attacked and defended equally well.
He has come on a great deal for the Gaels over the years, attacking the right flank is a trademark of theirs. Although He tends to overcarry the ball he never got in trouble once but it his delivery for this level he is was that bit slow becasue of it, but that is his game. His speed of thought will improve with every game and he is certainly worthy of his place on the panel for now.
The Saturday night Show Pt 2
Second Half began with a number of Switch's, Ronan Carroll to the square Eoin O'Connor came out around the middle. Pop Rath and O'Connell's man Jackie Agnew came into the fullbackline (more about these changes later)
Back to the actual game and Adrian Reid kicked a score from play with his left, just when you thought his chance to shoot was over he cut inside and curled it over. Brannigan again equalised.
The game lacked intensity to say the least and littered with bad handpassing, there was certain lull in the second half both sides were in cruise control and finding it difficult to score and to think quickly under pressure so early in the season.
Back to the actual game and Adrian Reid kicked a score from play with his left, just when you thought his chance to shoot was over he cut inside and curled it over. Brannigan again equalised.
The game lacked intensity to say the least and littered with bad handpassing, there was certain lull in the second half both sides were in cruise control and finding it difficult to score and to think quickly under pressure so early in the season.
It was then Brian Donnelly who took over the game. The Cooley man showed his full repertory of Skills, his fielding was brilliant throughout but his domination was sparked off by kicking a 45' wide, near the right touchline.It saled over and so did his confidence.
As a result Down were starved the other end, number 5 Timmy Hanna for Down hit two free's either side of monster long range effort from Donnelly. The game was showing it's nip/tuck nature on the scoreboard. Ronan Carroll put Louth ahead punching the ball over the bar.
(it's late enough now to talk about the HT switch's) Although not a natural forward Carroll is an effective target man he linked up well and has the power and pace to beat his marker everytime. Pop's Rath had a very subtle and solid game also when he came in for Collier at full back. Choking his marker and dispossesing on numerous occassions a forgotten man of sorts, Pop's has plenty to offer and should be further up the pecking order than he is.
Brian Donnelly Who else? then added the two point cushion and all that was needed to win the McGeough Cup. Arthur McConville scored the final point of the game and it was worth mentioning, out on the left touchline with his left foot Classy score and a player to keep an eye on, for the future.
Nice to see Geraldine's player Baz hamilton get a run out on home soil to make his debut also one for the future if his underage record is anything to go by.
Overall a good run out, that was needed after last week,The first of 2 games over the weekend and a opportunity for alot of players got a full 60 minutes match practice into them, which will bring them up to speed a in or out of Fitzer's Plan's.
Best man on View: Brian Donnelly, number 2 midfielder in the county after this performance
Best Down man on view: Arthur McConville, Clonduff man has a sweet left foot
As a result Down were starved the other end, number 5 Timmy Hanna for Down hit two free's either side of monster long range effort from Donnelly. The game was showing it's nip/tuck nature on the scoreboard. Ronan Carroll put Louth ahead punching the ball over the bar.
(it's late enough now to talk about the HT switch's) Although not a natural forward Carroll is an effective target man he linked up well and has the power and pace to beat his marker everytime. Pop's Rath had a very subtle and solid game also when he came in for Collier at full back. Choking his marker and dispossesing on numerous occassions a forgotten man of sorts, Pop's has plenty to offer and should be further up the pecking order than he is.
Brian Donnelly Who else? then added the two point cushion and all that was needed to win the McGeough Cup. Arthur McConville scored the final point of the game and it was worth mentioning, out on the left touchline with his left foot Classy score and a player to keep an eye on, for the future.
Nice to see Geraldine's player Baz hamilton get a run out on home soil to make his debut also one for the future if his underage record is anything to go by.
Overall a good run out, that was needed after last week,The first of 2 games over the weekend and a opportunity for alot of players got a full 60 minutes match practice into them, which will bring them up to speed a in or out of Fitzer's Plan's.
Best man on View: Brian Donnelly, number 2 midfielder in the county after this performance
Best Down man on view: Arthur McConville, Clonduff man has a sweet left foot
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Crossmaglen at noon Preview
From tonight's Team and selection.
Possible team for Tomorrow Vs Crossmaglen
which could possibly be a tougher test than Down actually it WILL be a tougher test.
which could possibly be a tougher test than Down actually it WILL be a tougher test.
1-Dwayne Crosby
2-Pop Rath
3-David Collier
4-Jamie Carr
5-Stephen Moonan
6-Declan Byrne
7-Liam Shevlin
8-PK
9-Mark Brennan
10-Cathal Bellew
11-Derek Crilly
12-Eoin O'Connor
13-Derek Maguire
14-Darren Clarke
15-Ronan Holcroft
Things to look out for: Johnny Murtagh in Crossmaglen in our Dugout not sure he'll play but he will be in opposition camp against his old club nevermind his county. Weird
Things to look out for: Johnny Murtagh in Crossmaglen in our Dugout not sure he'll play but he will be in opposition camp against his old club nevermind his county. Weird
Saturday, 21 January 2012
The Saturday Night Show Pt1
We came, We thawed, We conquered
Chilly evening in Haggardstown for the first trophy up for grabs for the year, The Jimmy mcGeough cup.
Both sides came to this game with ulterior motive's and it showed in their selection's. Down play Derry in the McKenna Cup semi and Louth have Crossmaglen lined up for a Challenge.
Louth's second string was considerably stronger but it was Down who dominated possession early on. Although their attack was more lateral than Munster at times. With a swift counter attack out of defense Conor Rafferty kicked the first score of the game. Raffo had a very lively first half, Louth's whole half forward line had a very physical presence shame the game didn't!
The most interesting battle of the first half was Derek Crilly and the ref! They fell out after what Crilly thought should have been a free of his own was instead given as a hop ball. he argued further and ended up with nothing. The ball went down the field and Arthur McConville and his Sweet left foot leveled.
Raffo again scored after a good rampaging run from the back by Ronan Greene. Crilly and the referee had another chat resulting in Crilly being issued a couple of yellow cards and told to go off by the ref leaving louth with 14 men for a few minutes Ciaran Brannigan leveled for the mourne men, then we slipped on Barry O'Hare for his debut (i think) to make it the full 15 again.
McConville gave Down the lead for the first time just before half time. His left foot was the highlight of the game and gave Collier a really tough time of it. Then David Reid scored a free on the stroke of half time to level things after a good run by Ronan Carroll.
so thats the first half tune in tomorrow for the Second....because its like 12 O'clock on a saturday night!!
Chilly evening in Haggardstown for the first trophy up for grabs for the year, The Jimmy mcGeough cup.
Both sides came to this game with ulterior motive's and it showed in their selection's. Down play Derry in the McKenna Cup semi and Louth have Crossmaglen lined up for a Challenge.
Louth's second string was considerably stronger but it was Down who dominated possession early on. Although their attack was more lateral than Munster at times. With a swift counter attack out of defense Conor Rafferty kicked the first score of the game. Raffo had a very lively first half, Louth's whole half forward line had a very physical presence shame the game didn't!
The most interesting battle of the first half was Derek Crilly and the ref! They fell out after what Crilly thought should have been a free of his own was instead given as a hop ball. he argued further and ended up with nothing. The ball went down the field and Arthur McConville and his Sweet left foot leveled.
Raffo again scored after a good rampaging run from the back by Ronan Greene. Crilly and the referee had another chat resulting in Crilly being issued a couple of yellow cards and told to go off by the ref leaving louth with 14 men for a few minutes Ciaran Brannigan leveled for the mourne men, then we slipped on Barry O'Hare for his debut (i think) to make it the full 15 again.
McConville gave Down the lead for the first time just before half time. His left foot was the highlight of the game and gave Collier a really tough time of it. Then David Reid scored a free on the stroke of half time to level things after a good run by Ronan Carroll.
so thats the first half tune in tomorrow for the Second....because its like 12 O'clock on a saturday night!!
Scorer's Chart
Number 1 on the night
Brian Donnelly's single 'Brimful of Asher from the 45'' from the Album 'placed balls'
(1) Brian Donnelly 3 points (1 45' 2play)
(2) Conor Rafferty 2 points
(3) Adrian Reid 1 point
(3) Ronan Carroll 1 punched point
(3) David Reid 1 free
Brian Donnelly's single 'Brimful of Asher from the 45'' from the Album 'placed balls'
(1) Brian Donnelly 3 points (1 45' 2play)
(2) Conor Rafferty 2 points
(3) Adrian Reid 1 point
(3) Ronan Carroll 1 punched point
(3) David Reid 1 free
Friday, 20 January 2012
4 W's Preview
WHO: Down
WHAT: McGeough Cup
WHERE: Haggardstown
WHEN: January 21st 7pm
Two things to expect from this game 1. A louth win and 2. Some new faces in new places.
Down are playing in the McKenna Cup semi the following day in Armagh at 2, so it will be interesting to see how they approach the game and who lines out for them? Expect a mid level Strength team to start with mass withdrawals come full time.
On these grounds, Louth Should win the Game but again I'd like to highlight the importance of experimentation!!
We were Badly lacking a target man last weekend, So throw Brian Donnelly up there and try out the lads that weren't used against Meath. Step up Stephen Moonan, David McComish and Jackie Agnew, who are all (Gulp) half backs!! None the less still need to be tried and tested before the League.
The Mourne men have started brightly this year and always bring their attacking flair to the occassion,which makes them entertaining to watch. Should be a nice test and lively first half with high score tallies on the board.
Things to look out for: David Collier again, Jamie O'Reilly (the latest AFL recruit to return home), How Down can utilise their so called little men, The quality venue haggardstown is (excellent lights and Pitch quality), Wee james in his customary NZ all blacks cap and a pair of mikasa gloves!
WHAT: McGeough Cup
WHERE: Haggardstown
WHEN: January 21st 7pm
Two things to expect from this game 1. A louth win and 2. Some new faces in new places.
Down are playing in the McKenna Cup semi the following day in Armagh at 2, so it will be interesting to see how they approach the game and who lines out for them? Expect a mid level Strength team to start with mass withdrawals come full time.
On these grounds, Louth Should win the Game but again I'd like to highlight the importance of experimentation!!
We were Badly lacking a target man last weekend, So throw Brian Donnelly up there and try out the lads that weren't used against Meath. Step up Stephen Moonan, David McComish and Jackie Agnew, who are all (Gulp) half backs!! None the less still need to be tried and tested before the League.
The Mourne men have started brightly this year and always bring their attacking flair to the occassion,which makes them entertaining to watch. Should be a nice test and lively first half with high score tallies on the board.
Things to look out for: David Collier again, Jamie O'Reilly (the latest AFL recruit to return home), How Down can utilise their so called little men, The quality venue haggardstown is (excellent lights and Pitch quality), Wee james in his customary NZ all blacks cap and a pair of mikasa gloves!
Thursday, 19 January 2012
Scoring Charts
Week one in the Charts & In at number one
actually five are joint Number One this week!
actually five are joint Number One this week!
But My favourite is by Paddy Keenan ''Left footed free'' from the critically acclaimed Album 'practice makes perfect kids'
(1) Paddy Keenan 1 Free
(1) Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft 1 play
(1) Andy McDonnell 1 play
(1) Ronan Carroll 1 play
(1) Darren Clarke 1 Free
(1) Paddy Keenan 1 Free
(1) Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft 1 play
(1) Andy McDonnell 1 play
(1) Ronan Carroll 1 play
(1) Darren Clarke 1 Free
Louth & Meath Report
I didn't really want to get bogged down and write a report on last sunday's game as I didn't think it was worthy of your time. First Game back plenty of Rust but Meath were little oiled up from their win and run out the week before.
This gave me a thought surrounding the current burnout/over/training issue within the GAA and I would just like to pose this Question.....What is the point of all this training?
Our main reason for the loss and more importantly not performing was that Meath held the advantage after having a game under their belt...One game!!!
If it gives you that much of an advantage? then there is no need for all this training and the more games the better!
Anyway on to the next one!
Best man on View: Cormac McGuinness, A Class act, His return is a massive boost for meath in this upcoming Season.
Best Louth Man on View: Newbie Dwayne Crosby
This gave me a thought surrounding the current burnout/over/training issue within the GAA and I would just like to pose this Question.....What is the point of all this training?
Our main reason for the loss and more importantly not performing was that Meath held the advantage after having a game under their belt...One game!!!
If it gives you that much of an advantage? then there is no need for all this training and the more games the better!
Anyway on to the next one!
Best man on View: Cormac McGuinness, A Class act, His return is a massive boost for meath in this upcoming Season.
Best Louth Man on View: Newbie Dwayne Crosby
Wednesday, 18 January 2012
Transfer round-up
This is an exciting time just before the season kicks off and the transfers add to this tradition.
Supporter's and players a like, love reading down through the long list of players and spotting good players making good moves or Pigeon's going to the next coup!
Supporter's and players a like, love reading down through the long list of players and spotting good players making good moves or Pigeon's going to the next coup!
Top 5 Transfers
1-Dean Matthews, Glyde Ranger to St Mary's: A very talented forward and the best player to be transferred. His fallout is Glyde’s loss and the Mary’s gain. Nice stable of young forwards in Ardee now.
2-Carl Courtney, John Mitchells to Naomh Martin: eventually get his move and a chance to test himself with the big guns, a useful addition to the ever improving Jocks and Should help their Progress and could bring them another step closer to Joe ward.
3-Keith Arnold, St Nicholas to Newtown Blues: Another want away player who has been touted with a move over the years. Should add some finesse to the county finalists.
4-Baz Kelly, Newtown Blues to Wolfe Tones: Returns to his old club after winning a couple of Joe wards. On his day a really good player, who will bring dramatic and badly needed quality to the hapless Tones.
5-Darren McConnon, Roche Emmets to Naomh fionnbarra: Big Midfielder will be a useful addition to the Togher side one of Roche's top players over the years could form a very impressive partnership with John Doyle at Midfield.
Joint fifth Damian Connor, St Pats to St Joesph's: Could bring a lot of experience to a bunch of quality but inexperienced Joe’s squad.
5-Darren McConnon, Roche Emmets to Naomh fionnbarra: Big Midfielder will be a useful addition to the Togher side one of Roche's top players over the years could form a very impressive partnership with John Doyle at Midfield.
Joint fifth Damian Connor, St Pats to St Joesph's: Could bring a lot of experience to a bunch of quality but inexperienced Joe’s squad.
Also some Interesting moves like David Donovan,Justin McCarville to Dunleer, Lee Wright to Dundalk Gaels, Luke Judge to Clogherhead good players who with a change of scenery could improve themselves and the team they are joining.
3 Withdrawals
Every one of these withdrawals, saved major repercussion’s for all teams involved.David Brennan to Hunterstown would have been a massive loss in experience to Mattock and a major injection of Quality to the junior ranks.Seamus Quigley-A born and bred goalkeeper and all round good guy would Slot in well with any side but would have left Cooley in a pickle, only one quality goalie in their ranks!Emmet Kelleher- Clogherhead may have lost the final piece to their Joe Ward jig-saw and the Plunketts can breadth easy as one of the best stays put.
Biggest losers-St Nicholas,They must feel like a feeder club to the big clubs around Drogheda, They develop the talent and other teams get to see the quality.
Biggest Winners-Newtown Blues, Although losing some young talent in David Donovan and Luke Judge, Tinley and Arnold will be a huge boost to the newfoundwell side. Overall beaten county finalist’s last year just got stronger. Other Clubs are shaking in their boots.
notable mention-Wolfe Tones, Gained some quality and should allow them to be a little more competitive this season highlighting the good side of this controversial transfer system.
Overall a more eventful set of transfers than recent years,Dunleer,tones and Blues looked to have gained some quality. While some other clubs will feel hard done by and aggrieved with the County Board and you'd have to agree especially in the Nick's case.
There is still that sinking feeling that 45 footballers moving, is way too many transfers for such a small County.
There is still that sinking feeling that 45 footballers moving, is way too many transfers for such a small County.
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Transfer Deadline Day!
Skysports have just announced the transfer's within louth GAA....
Sanctioned: -
Fergal Kellet - Annaghminnon Rovers to Glyde Rangers
Jason Moore - Clan Na Gael to Dowdallshill
Gavin Mullen - Cooley Kickhams to Cuchulainn Gaels
Patrick Malone - Cuchulainn Gaels to Cooley Kickhams
David Quinn - Glen Emmets to Naomh Mairtin
Dean Matthews - Glyde Rangers to St. Marys
David Martin - Hunterstown Rovers to Sean Mc Dermotts
Niall Moynagh - Hunterstown Rovers to Westerns
Carl Courtney - John Mitchels to Naomh Mairtin
Jamie Mc Aviney - Knockbridge to Naomh Moninne
Ciaran Connolly - Na Piarsaigh to Dowdallshill
Justin Mc Carville - Naomh Mairtin to Lannleire
Lee Wright - Naomh Mairtin to Dundalk Gaels
Aaron Dunne - Newtown Blues to St. Nicholas
Barry Kelly - Newtown Blues to Wolfe Tones
David Donovan - Newtown Blues to Lannleire
Luke Judge - Newtown Blues to Dreadnots
Kieran Maguire - Newtown Blues to St. Fechins
Terry Nolan - O' Raghallaighs to Glen Emmets
Shane O'Keeffe - Oliver Plunketts to Wolfe Tones
Stephen Malone - Oliver Plunketts to Wolfe Tones
Darren Mc Connon - Roche Emmets to Naomh Fionnbarra
Stephen Hoey - St. Brides to Dowdallshill
Niall O Cionnaigh - St. Brides to Dowdallshill
Lee Kirk - St. Brides to Annaghminnon Rovers
David Loughran - St. Brides to Annaghminnon Rovers
Tony Brennan - St. Brides to Annaghminnon Rovers
Stephen Campbell - St. Kevins to Lannleire
Emmet Ward - St. Marys to John Mitchels
William Matthews - St. Marys to John Mitchels
Aidan Carter - St. Nicholas to St. Kevins
Darren Moore - St. Nicholas to Glen Emmets
Keith Arnold - St. Nicholas to Newtown Blues
Andrew Tinley - St. Nicholas to Newtown Blues
Michael Mc Greehan - St. Patricks to Dowdallshill
Gary O Brien - St. Patricks to Dowdallshill
Damien Connor - St. Patricks to St. Josephs
Robert Moynagh - Stabannon Parnells to Lannleire
Michael Lennon - Westerns to St. Marys
Lee Brady - Wolfe Tones HC to Glen Emmets
Malcolm Burke - Wolfe Tones HC to Glen Emmets
Alan Carolan - Wolfe Tones HC to Glen Emmets
Refused: -
Luke Cormican - Oliver Plunketts to Newtown Blues
Emmet Carolan - Oliver Plunketts to Newtown Blues
Tomás Mac Ruairi - Dundalk YI to Na Piarsaigh
Eoin Moore - St. Fechins to O' Raghallaighs
Alex Reilly - St. Nicholas to Newtown Blues
Derek Kierans - St. Nicholas to O' Raghallaighs
Withdrawn: -
Seamus O Coigligh - Cooley Kickhams to Clan Na Gael
David Brennan - Mattock Rangers to Hunterstown Rovers
Emmet Kelleher - Oliver Plunketts to Dreadnots
Sanctioned: -
Fergal Kellet - Annaghminnon Rovers to Glyde Rangers
Jason Moore - Clan Na Gael to Dowdallshill
Gavin Mullen - Cooley Kickhams to Cuchulainn Gaels
Patrick Malone - Cuchulainn Gaels to Cooley Kickhams
David Quinn - Glen Emmets to Naomh Mairtin
Dean Matthews - Glyde Rangers to St. Marys
David Martin - Hunterstown Rovers to Sean Mc Dermotts
Niall Moynagh - Hunterstown Rovers to Westerns
Carl Courtney - John Mitchels to Naomh Mairtin
Jamie Mc Aviney - Knockbridge to Naomh Moninne
Ciaran Connolly - Na Piarsaigh to Dowdallshill
Justin Mc Carville - Naomh Mairtin to Lannleire
Lee Wright - Naomh Mairtin to Dundalk Gaels
Aaron Dunne - Newtown Blues to St. Nicholas
Barry Kelly - Newtown Blues to Wolfe Tones
David Donovan - Newtown Blues to Lannleire
Luke Judge - Newtown Blues to Dreadnots
Kieran Maguire - Newtown Blues to St. Fechins
Terry Nolan - O' Raghallaighs to Glen Emmets
Shane O'Keeffe - Oliver Plunketts to Wolfe Tones
Stephen Malone - Oliver Plunketts to Wolfe Tones
Darren Mc Connon - Roche Emmets to Naomh Fionnbarra
Stephen Hoey - St. Brides to Dowdallshill
Niall O Cionnaigh - St. Brides to Dowdallshill
Lee Kirk - St. Brides to Annaghminnon Rovers
David Loughran - St. Brides to Annaghminnon Rovers
Tony Brennan - St. Brides to Annaghminnon Rovers
Stephen Campbell - St. Kevins to Lannleire
Emmet Ward - St. Marys to John Mitchels
William Matthews - St. Marys to John Mitchels
Aidan Carter - St. Nicholas to St. Kevins
Darren Moore - St. Nicholas to Glen Emmets
Keith Arnold - St. Nicholas to Newtown Blues
Andrew Tinley - St. Nicholas to Newtown Blues
Michael Mc Greehan - St. Patricks to Dowdallshill
Gary O Brien - St. Patricks to Dowdallshill
Damien Connor - St. Patricks to St. Josephs
Robert Moynagh - Stabannon Parnells to Lannleire
Michael Lennon - Westerns to St. Marys
Lee Brady - Wolfe Tones HC to Glen Emmets
Malcolm Burke - Wolfe Tones HC to Glen Emmets
Alan Carolan - Wolfe Tones HC to Glen Emmets
Refused: -
Luke Cormican - Oliver Plunketts to Newtown Blues
Emmet Carolan - Oliver Plunketts to Newtown Blues
Tomás Mac Ruairi - Dundalk YI to Na Piarsaigh
Eoin Moore - St. Fechins to O' Raghallaighs
Alex Reilly - St. Nicholas to Newtown Blues
Derek Kierans - St. Nicholas to O' Raghallaighs
Withdrawn: -
Seamus O Coigligh - Cooley Kickhams to Clan Na Gael
David Brennan - Mattock Rangers to Hunterstown Rovers
Emmet Kelleher - Oliver Plunketts to Dreadnots
Rookie Report
Louth went into battle with five debutant's, thats one third of the team good maths eh? Lets start at the back shall we?
Actually, lets go further than that and start in Goals with Dwayne Crosby solid throughout, Actually really solid, looked like a seasoned veteran and gave an impression he's up to the task. This could be down to the fact that goalkeeping looks and is very natural to him whatever the code you feel he could do it in his sleep. Icing on the cake was the close range block on Paddy Gilsenan in the first half, vital in keeping Louth in the game at that stage. His Kickouts accuracy will come but the distance and trajectory is there. A+
In front of Crosby was David Collier, The Fechin's man is no were near the finished article but showed a lot of potential. He has the heart and battling qualities which is required for inter-county football but a necessity for full back. Also Showed composure in dealing with the Geraghty hullabaloo. The more games the better to aid his development one for the future. This was typified in lasting the full sixty minutes.B+
My two wingmen, both debutant's both found it tough going, not in terms of ability but to get involved in the game. Cathal Bellew looked lively when on the ball and busy all round. Although he never really got an opportunity to show his attacking side due to threat the meath halfback line had going forward. Taking him off so early will not aid his development or confidence for that matter. C+
Eoin O'Connor on the opposite wing, also found the going tough but my nuance is more with management than the player. He was moved out the field rather than inside. The louth attack (and dear lord the game!) was crying out for him in his most natural position at full forward and where he made his name last summer. To see him taken off without being tried and tested there was the game's biggest travesty from louth's point of view. C
Huge step up for the Termonfeckin man Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft and it showed, his free taking let him down which will disappoint him the most. However as the game went on he got up to speed, typified in stepping up to kick louth's only score of the first half. Playing in a higher grade of football with the club combined with being involved with the county set up full time will bring him on no-end C-
As can be seen from the report a common trend is occurring, that new players take time to develop and adjust and can't be judged too harshly too soon but sometimes in Gaelic football this time is just not available.
Actually, lets go further than that and start in Goals with Dwayne Crosby solid throughout, Actually really solid, looked like a seasoned veteran and gave an impression he's up to the task. This could be down to the fact that goalkeeping looks and is very natural to him whatever the code you feel he could do it in his sleep. Icing on the cake was the close range block on Paddy Gilsenan in the first half, vital in keeping Louth in the game at that stage. His Kickouts accuracy will come but the distance and trajectory is there. A+
In front of Crosby was David Collier, The Fechin's man is no were near the finished article but showed a lot of potential. He has the heart and battling qualities which is required for inter-county football but a necessity for full back. Also Showed composure in dealing with the Geraghty hullabaloo. The more games the better to aid his development one for the future. This was typified in lasting the full sixty minutes.B+
My two wingmen, both debutant's both found it tough going, not in terms of ability but to get involved in the game. Cathal Bellew looked lively when on the ball and busy all round. Although he never really got an opportunity to show his attacking side due to threat the meath halfback line had going forward. Taking him off so early will not aid his development or confidence for that matter. C+
Eoin O'Connor on the opposite wing, also found the going tough but my nuance is more with management than the player. He was moved out the field rather than inside. The louth attack (and dear lord the game!) was crying out for him in his most natural position at full forward and where he made his name last summer. To see him taken off without being tried and tested there was the game's biggest travesty from louth's point of view. C
Huge step up for the Termonfeckin man Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft and it showed, his free taking let him down which will disappoint him the most. However as the game went on he got up to speed, typified in stepping up to kick louth's only score of the first half. Playing in a higher grade of football with the club combined with being involved with the county set up full time will bring him on no-end C-
As can be seen from the report a common trend is occurring, that new players take time to develop and adjust and can't be judged too harshly too soon but sometimes in Gaelic football this time is just not available.
O'byrning Anticipation
Third Sunday of the Year and Louth finally kicks off their year away to Meath. Nice little spin out to Navan, on a possibly frosty sunday to have a look at the new recruits both sides have to offer.
Although a Baptism of fire, this game is not about winning it is about development.
David Collier at the back really could be an answer to our Full back problems we haven't had a legitimate one since Stephen melia!! Meath newcomer Tom Walsh will test the Fechin's man's creditentials scoring 1-3 on his competitive debut the week before against wexford.
In goals Dwayne Crosbie comes in, after forging a good repuatation with St Mary's Ardee and junior soccer around the region over the years interesting to see how he commands his area and how well the his left footed kick outs go down.
The three debutants in the forwards, all have something to offer and alot to prove especially Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft. His lofty place in the JFC scoring ranks over the years has alot of people calling for his inclusion, Sunday will be a perfect place to audition the public's vote.
Eoin O'Connor on the wing could be an option for kick outs but his scoring threat might be limitied so far away from the goals in Tailteann's big green pasture's.Also the mobility of the Meath Halfback line could be a factor. A move into the full forward line could develop during the game to suit his game and big frame better.
Cathal Bellew the Kilkerley man who is still under 21 this year along with O'connor has being making waves of late with an ever improving Kilkerley side and deserve's his chance.
Typical Fitzer does what he said he doesn't in this case names majority of the players he said were out! Anyway enough about Fitzer's Faults. (we could be here all day!)
I am all for experimentation and if I had my way McComish and Scoots (Stephen Moonan) would both start at wingback with Liam Shevlin in Midfield with Donnelly. Now is the time to learn and assess players capability. Playing Paddy Keenan in January is just poor player management. You don't flog a throughbreed racehorse early in the year for the sake of a win, such as the welfare of our top players should be given the same consideration.
There is the added pressure on experimentation, we may not have another game. Thanks to the pulling out of Kilkenny we don't have the O'Byrne Shield to fall back on. This could potentially leave us gameless with three weeks prior to westmeath, the 4 pointer and league opener.
We all know how important a good start in the league is. So experiment now with the unknown's because we know what the rest of the Squad can offer and deliver.
Although a Baptism of fire, this game is not about winning it is about development.
David Collier at the back really could be an answer to our Full back problems we haven't had a legitimate one since Stephen melia!! Meath newcomer Tom Walsh will test the Fechin's man's creditentials scoring 1-3 on his competitive debut the week before against wexford.
In goals Dwayne Crosbie comes in, after forging a good repuatation with St Mary's Ardee and junior soccer around the region over the years interesting to see how he commands his area and how well the his left footed kick outs go down.
The three debutants in the forwards, all have something to offer and alot to prove especially Ronan 'Chinky' Holcroft. His lofty place in the JFC scoring ranks over the years has alot of people calling for his inclusion, Sunday will be a perfect place to audition the public's vote.
Eoin O'Connor on the wing could be an option for kick outs but his scoring threat might be limitied so far away from the goals in Tailteann's big green pasture's.Also the mobility of the Meath Halfback line could be a factor. A move into the full forward line could develop during the game to suit his game and big frame better.
Cathal Bellew the Kilkerley man who is still under 21 this year along with O'connor has being making waves of late with an ever improving Kilkerley side and deserve's his chance.
Typical Fitzer does what he said he doesn't in this case names majority of the players he said were out! Anyway enough about Fitzer's Faults. (we could be here all day!)
I am all for experimentation and if I had my way McComish and Scoots (Stephen Moonan) would both start at wingback with Liam Shevlin in Midfield with Donnelly. Now is the time to learn and assess players capability. Playing Paddy Keenan in January is just poor player management. You don't flog a throughbreed racehorse early in the year for the sake of a win, such as the welfare of our top players should be given the same consideration.
There is the added pressure on experimentation, we may not have another game. Thanks to the pulling out of Kilkenny we don't have the O'Byrne Shield to fall back on. This could potentially leave us gameless with three weeks prior to westmeath, the 4 pointer and league opener.
We all know how important a good start in the league is. So experiment now with the unknown's because we know what the rest of the Squad can offer and deliver.
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